3-star beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz with ocean views
Accommodations
The Dream Inn Santa Cruz is the only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz, providing direct access to Cowell Beach. Rooms such as the Ocean View Deluxe King and Ocean View Cathedral Executive King feature private balconies and vaulted ceilings. Each room offers sweeping views of Monterey Bay and is equipped with modern amenities for convenience.
Event Spaces
Spanning 3,500 square feet, the Dream Inn offers three flexible event spaces, including the Dream Ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows. This beachfront location is ideal for meetings and events, accommodating up to 200 guests. Professional catering services provide locally sourced cuisine for a memorable dining experience.
Location
Positioned on the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the hotel gives guests quick access to entertainment and dining options. It's a few steps away from iconic spots such as Steamer Lane and the Santa Cruz Wharf. Guests can easily explore nearby attractions, including Natural Bridges State Beach.
Dining
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge offers a menu focused on seasonal local ingredients, emphasizing fresh seafood from the Monterey Bay. Guests can dine indoors or enjoy meals on the patio with stunning ocean views. Poolside dining is available for those who wish to relax while enjoying food and drinks.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Families can enjoy various amenities at the Dream Inn, including spacious rooms with multiple bed options for comfort. There are beach toys available for children at the Dream Shop for their beach adventures. The pool area offers cabana beds, providing a relaxing spot for family fun.
Highlights
Location: Only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz
Rooms: Ocean View accommodations with private balconies
Dining: Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge serving local seafood
Events: 3,500 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space
Accessibility: Direct access to Cowell Beach
Activities: Close proximity to Steamer Lane and Santa Cruz Wharf
Must-do experiences
Stroll along West Cliff Drive for stunning coastal views.
Taste the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk cinnamon roll.
Visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum for local surf history.
Explore Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park's majestic trees.
Don't miss the Santa Cruz Farmers Market on Wednesday evenings.
Select your room type
Dream Inn Santa Cruz offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Ocean View Suite Tower
2 persons
44 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Ocean View Deluxe Two Queen
2 persons
32 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Ocean View Cloud Two Queen
2 persons
32 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Dream Inn Santa Cruz offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Lift
ATM/Cash machine
Coffee shop
Vending machines
Fireplace
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Sports & Fitness
Canoeing
Hiking
Golf course
Fishing
Services
Valet parking
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Dry cleaning
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink
Happy hour
Dining
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Spa & Leisure
Heated swimming pool
Outdoor swimming pool
Beach access
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Jacuzzi
Room features
Air conditioning
Heating
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
Show more
Dining Onsite
At the Dream Inn Santa Cruz, dining is a delightful exploration of local flavors infused with the essence of the stunning coastal setting. Guests can savor each moment at the Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge, where family-friendly warmth meets an inviting romantic atmosphere, perfect for memorable meals at any time of day.
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Local Californian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood
Ambiance
A cozy setting featuring seaside views, perfect for families and couples alike.
Key Offerings
Dine on locally inspired dishes that celebrate the bounty of the Pacific, along with craft cocktails and a welcoming lounge for after-dinner relaxation. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, and dinner experiences.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended.
Open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner; hours vary.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz Location
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 95060,
Explore Santa Cruz
Nearby Activities and Attractions
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
11-minute walk
An iconic amusement park featuring rides and games by the beach, perfect for a day of family fun.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
15-minute walk
A small museum dedicated to surfing history, showcasing local surf culture and memorabilia.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
4-minute walk
A captivating center with exhibits on marine life and conservation, ideal for families and nature lovers.
Cowell Beach
3-minute walk
A stunning beach known for surfing and swimming, offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Surfing Lessons
5-minute walk
Thrilling surfing lessons available through local shops at Cowell Beach, catering to all skill levels.
Well Within Spa
15-minute walk
A serene spa offering massages and wellness treatments, perfect for relaxation after a day of activities.
Mountain Biking at Pogonip Park
10-minute drive
Exciting mountain biking trails suitable for all levels, showcasing beautiful landscapes and nature.
Santa Cruz Farmers Market
17-minute walk
Weekly market featuring local produce, crafts, and live music, typically held on Wednesdays.
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
3-minute walk
Cozy venue offering fresh seafood and local dishes with stunning ocean views from the patio.
Ideal Bar & Grill
4-minute walk
A lively spot with a casual atmosphere, specializing in burgers, tacos, and craft beers.
The Picnic Basket
4-minute walk
Charming cafe known for its locally-sourced ingredients and delicious sandwiches and salads.
Casablanca Bistro
6-minute walk
Intimate bistro serving Mediterranean cuisine, offering an extensive wine list and cozy ambience.
Cocoanut Grove
10-minute walk
A historic venue hosting events, live music, and dance nights, easily accessible for all ages.
Pacific Garden Mall
17-minute walk
Open-air shopping area with street performers, cafes, and boutiques, great for a leisurely stroll.
The Catalyst Club
20-minute walk
Live music venue popular for concerts and nightlife, offering diverse shows all week long.
Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium
20-minute walk
Historic venue featuring concerts, shows, and events, providing a range of entertainment options.
Getting around
City Centre
Santa Cruz 15 min · 4000 ft
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC) 83 min · 34.0 mi
Monterey Peninsula (MRY) 103 min · 42.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at true.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2008
Number of floors:
10
Number of rooms:
165
Former name
Coast Santa Cruz Hotel
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Dream Inn Santa Cruz from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 951 verified reviews
9.0 /10
Perfect
88 %
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free WiFi
8.7/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
7.8/10
Guest reviews
based on 951 reviews
9.0/10
based on 3752 reviews
4.5/5
based on 710 reviews
8.7/10
Sebastian from Germany
Single
Ocean View Cloud King
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 26, 2026
9.3/10
Fantastic Beachfront Hotel
easy check-in late check-out comfortable bed amazing view
The check-in was easy. I received a late check-out, which I appreciated a lot. The room was clean and spacious and included a nice shower and a comfortable bed. The views from the balcony were amazing. Waking up for sunrise is a must.
Location
10/10
The hotel provides unparalleled access to the beach and the wharf. It is really good. You can easily walk along the ocean for more views and to immerse yourself in nature, very calming and enjoyable.
Rooms
9/10
The hotel rooms feature a chic retro style that makes them feel elegant and comfortable. Rooms are spacious, clean, and well-equipped with all necessary amenities.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel has a lovely pool and a hot tub for relaxation. The pool is great. The hotel also offers bikes for rent. This is a convenient and appreciated amenity.
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FAQs
About Dream Inn Santa Cruz
What attractions are close to Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Nearby attractions include Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (0.5 km), Ocean View Park (0.5 km), and Natural Bridges State Beach (2 km).
What are the check-in and check-out times at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Does Dream Inn Santa Cruz have a pool?
Yes, the hotel features a renovated outdoor heated swimming pool open year-round.
What on-site dining options are available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The hotel features the Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge, offering locally sourced cuisine with ocean views.
What room amenities are available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Rooms offer complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, flat-screen TVs, mini-refrigerators, and private balconies with ocean views.
Is there a bar at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Yes, the hotel has a bar/lounge area where guests can enjoy snacks and beverages.
How far is Dream Inn Santa Cruz from Mineta San Jose International Airport?
The hotel is 55 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
What are some nearby dining options to Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Nearby restaurants include Ideal Bar & Grill (0.5 km), Las Palmas Taco Bar (0.5 km), and The Picnic Basket (0.5 km).
Does Dream Inn Santa Cruz offer any recreational activities?
The hotel provides complimentary Beach Cruisers, has a golf course on-site, and offers access to beach activities.
Are there any wellness facilities at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The hotel features a hot tub and offers wellness programs on-site.
Is high-speed internet available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Yes, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel.